Ghent, Belgium, 2023
The Vynckier redevelopment is a captivating initiative combining cultural and artisanal elements within the historic industrial site. Situated in Ghent, Belgium, the complex, with its roots tracing back to the 19th century, once stood as a testament to the Flemish city’s thriving textile industry, housing the renowned "Manchester Buildings." Originally designed to accommodate spinning mills, the site gained its name from the Vynckier Brothers, who later transformed it into a hub for electrical switchgear production. In 2019, Revive seized the opportunity to breathe new life into this industrial relic, envisioning a modern business site while preserving its rich heritage.
At the bottom of the project lies the meticulous reconversion of two iconic buildings. Building 13A, built in 1880 as part of a former cotton-spinning mill, emerges as an art gallery, while the 1911 boiler room, once powering spinning and weaving machines, becomes a microbrewery complete with its own bar and restaurant. The project's unique challenge lay in maintaining the original architectural integrity of these structures, mandated by their inclusion in a conservation area. Contemporary touches, such as strategically placed window openings connecting both buildings, were introduced to foster a seamless dialogue between past and present.
Beyond the refurbished walls, a sculpture garden acts as the connective tissue between the two buildings, doubling as a public space and a serene retreat for the bustling business community. This green oasis breathes life into the surroundings, providing a harmonious environment where history, culture, and contemporary innovation converge, defining the Vynckier Project as a beacon of transformation in Ghent's landscape.